Ernie Terrell(1939-2014)
- Actor
Ernie Terrell at one time was considered the Heavyweight Boxing
Champion of the world, at least to the World Boxing Association who had
stripped Muhammad Ali of his world championship after he met Sonny
Liston in a rematch in 1965. At almost 6 feet 7 inches tall, Terrell
has an outstanding amateur boxing background winning a Golden Gloves
boxing title. In 1957 he turned professional under the management of
"Big" Julie Isaacson. A lanky 198 pounds, Terrell was noted for his
long jab and clutching style. He became a rated heavyweight contender
when he decisioned Amos "Big Train" Lincoln in 10 rounds on June 9,
1962 in New York City. He followed with victories over top-10 rated
Cleveland "Big Cat" Williams, Zora Folley and Bob Foster. As the number
2 contender in the world, he was matched with 4th rated Eddie Machen
for the vacant WBA World Heavyweight Title when the WBA stripped
Muhammad of his title for fighting ex-champ Sonny Liston. Terell
defended his "title" successfully against George Chuvallo and Doug
Jones, before being battered by Muhammad Ali in losing a 15 round
decision in 1967. After losing decisions to Thad Spencer and Manuel
Ramos, Ernie retired to pursue a singing career. In 1971 he made a
comeback defeating 6 straight opponents including an upset knockout
victor over 4th ranked Jose Luis Garcia. However in 1973, Terell lost a
disputed 12 round decision to Chuck Wepner and than was knocked-out in
one round by Jeff "Candy Slim" Merritt on September 10, 1973 in New
York City. Terell retired following the Merritt fight and went on to
become a highly successful promoter in Chicago.
